According to recent news reports, the situation in St. Elizabeth has become extremely challenging following Hurricane Beryl’s impact. Private water trucking services have notably increased since last Wednesday, July 3, 2024. Services from companies such as the Jamaica Public Service Company and National Water Commission have confirmed that several areas, including St. Elizabeth, will be enduring an extended period without water and electricity.
As of the latest update on Monday morning, July 8, 2024, the JPS has managed to restore power to 78 percent of its customers, which has subsequently supported the NWC in reactivating water supply systems in various parishes. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story.
Reports from Santa Cruz, St. Elizabeth, paint a worrying picture, with independent truck drivers voicing their struggles as they wait for water refills from a well in the area. The demand for water surpasses the available supply, resulting in extended waiting times, while the local business community also vies for these essential services.
Telecommunication struggles further compound the challenges, with residents unable to easily reach out for assistance. It’s truly distressing to hear that some individuals have resorted to seeking out water services directly at the homes of truck operators due to the breakdown in communication lines.
The dire situation has led the residents of St. Elizabeth to once again plead for support, highlighting the severe scarcity of water in the wake of Hurricane Beryl. One heart-wrenching account comes from a resident in Santa Cruz who describes the ongoing impact of the hurricane, stressing that their community remains without water and electricity.
NCB Foundation commits to matching up to $150m in hurricane relief donations.
The NCB Foundation has pledged $20 million for Hurricane Beryl relief efforts. Chairman Michael Lee-Chin will match donations to the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management. The foundation will also match donations up to $150 million.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness stated that this contribution will help the most affected residents. A website, disasterfund.opm.gov.jm, is set up for donations. The Prime Minister emphasized that the website is the main source for hurricane impact information and accepting donations. He also mentioned that anyone with a Visa or Mastercard, debit or credit, can donate on the website and the NCB Foundation will match the donations.
He urged people to ensure they donate through the correct website. The Prime Minister announced this at the Launch of the Building Jamaica Better Fund, Hurricane Beryl Relief Coordination Committee on Monday.